Tanzania Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu Charged with Treason
Lissu’s arrest and subsequent treason charge spark international outrage as tensions rise ahead of the October elections.
- Tundu Lissu faces treason charges after rallying for electoral reforms ahead of Tanzania’s October elections
- Lissu’s campaign for a fair and free election has led to a government crackdown
- International outcry follows the charges
Tundu Lissu, Tanzania’s opposition leader, has been charged with treason following his arrest after a rally in the southern part of the country.
The charge stems from his ongoing campaign for electoral reform, under the banner of “No Reforms, No Election,” ahead of the country’s October elections.
Lissu, who is expected to challenge President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has been vocal about the need for changes to ensure a free and fair vote.
Lissu’s campaign, which calls for reforms to the electoral commission, has been criticized by authorities as an incitement against the election process.
Lissu, leader of the Chadema party, argues that the commission should not include members appointed directly by the president.
The opposition leader’s arrest and the crackdown on his supporters have sparked outrage, with rights groups accusing the government of using force to silence critics and undermine political freedoms.
Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017, has faced multiple arrests throughout his political career.
His treason case has been postponed until 24 April, as tensions continue to rise in the lead-up to the general elections.
Despite the government’s efforts to suppress the opposition, Lissu’s supporters remain resolute in their fight for electoral reforms.
